The main places to buy an aquarium are pet supply chains, local aquarium shops, general retailers, and online marketplaces
You can find aquariums at five main types of retailers, each with different advantages depending on what size tank you need, how quickly you want it, and whether you want informed information before buying. Pet supply chains like Petco and PetSmart stock tanks in most sizes and carry supplies in the same trip. Local aquarium specialty shops usually have a narrower selection but staff who can answer questions about setup and maintenance. General retailers like Walmart and Target carry basic starter kits and small tanks. Online marketplaces including Amazon, Chewy, and manufacturer websites offer the widest selection and often lower prices, but shipping costs and delivery time vary. Specialty online retailers focus on high-end or unusual tank sizes.
The right choice depends on whether you prioritize convenience, price, selection, or information. A beginner buying a 20-gallon tank for the first time might benefit from a local shop where staff can explain filtration and cycling. Someone replacing a broken 10-gallon tank might order online for speed and price. A person building a large custom setup might check multiple sources to compare frame materials and glass thickness.
Key Takeaways
- Pet supply chains like Petco and PetSmart carry tanks in most common sizes and let you buy supplies the same day.
- Local aquarium shops usually have staff who can answer questions about setup, maintenance, and what fish work together.
- Online retailers offer the widest selection and often lower prices, but you pay for shipping and wait for delivery.
- General retailers like Walmart and Target stock basic tanks and starter kits but rarely have staff knowledge about aquarium care.
- Specialty online retailers carry high-end tanks and unusual sizes but typically cost more and have longer lead times.
Pet supply chains: fast, convenient, mid-range prices
Petco and PetSmart are the largest chains in North America and stock aquariums in most common sizes—10, 20, 29, 40, and 55 gallons are usually in stock. Both carry starter kits that bundle a tank, filter, heater, and basic supplies, which is useful if you are setting up for the first time. Prices are moderate—not the lowest you will find online, but not premium either. The main advantage is speed: you walk in, buy the tank and supplies, and set up the same day.
Staff knowledge varies by location. Some stores have employees trained in aquarium basics; others do not. Call ahead or visit in person to ask whether someone can answer questions about tank cycling, filter size, or stocking levels. Both chains also run sales and loyalty programs that can reduce the price of larger tanks by 10 to 20 percent if you watch for promotions.
Local aquarium specialty shops: informed information, smaller selection
Independent aquarium shops exist in most cities and towns. They typically stock 15 to 40 different tank sizes and styles, from small desktop tanks to large display models. The staff usually have hands-on experience with aquarium setup and maintenance and can explain why a particular filter or heater matters for your specific tank size and fish type. Many also sell live plants, specialty substrates, and harder-to-find equipment that chain stores do not carry.
Prices are often higher than chains or online retailers because the shop has lower volume and higher overhead. However, the information you get can save you money later by helping you avoid common mistakes—like buying a filter too small for the tank, or stocking fish that will outgrow the space. Many local shops also offer tank setup services or maintenance visits if you want professional help. Search online for "aquarium shop near me" or check local business directories to find shops in your area.
General retailers: basic tanks, limited selection
Walmart, Target, and similar general retailers carry a small selection of aquariums, usually in the 5 to 20-gallon range. These are typically budget starter kits with a basic filter and heater included. Prices are competitive because these stores have high volume and low margins. The downside is that staff rarely have aquarium knowledge, so you cannot count on information about setup or maintenance.
General retailers work well if you know exactly what you want—a specific tank size and basic kit—and do not need guidance. They are less useful if you have questions about whether the filter is strong enough, how to cycle the tank, or what fish will work in that space. Availability varies by location and season, so call ahead to confirm the tank size you want is in stock.
Online marketplaces: widest selection, lowest prices, shipping costs
Amazon, Chewy, and similar marketplaces carry hundreds of aquarium models, from 2-gallon nano tanks to 200-gallon display tanks. Prices are often 15 to 30 percent lower than local retailers because online sellers have lower overhead. You can compare models, read customer reviews, and see photos from multiple angles before buying.
The trade-offs are shipping cost and delivery time. A 20-gallon tank weighs 25 pounds empty and costs $15 to $40 to ship depending on your location and the retailer's shipping policy. Delivery usually takes 5 to 10 business days. Some retailers offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount, so buying the tank plus supplies together can reduce the per-item cost. Check the return policy before ordering—tanks sometimes arrive with cracks or chips, and you want to know whether the seller will replace it at no cost.
Chewy specializes in pet supplies and often has better prices on aquarium equipment than Amazon, though selection varies by region. Amazon typically has the widest selection but less consistent pricing. Both allow you to track orders and read detailed customer reviews that mention shipping damage or quality issues.
Specialty online retailers: high-end tanks and custom sizes
Retailers like Aqueon, Marineland, and regional specialty sites carry premium tanks, custom dimensions, and equipment not found in chain stores. These include rimless tanks, planted tank setups, and large custom-built models. Prices are higher—sometimes 40 to 60 percent above chain store prices—because these are specialty products with lower volume.
Lead times can be long, especially for custom tanks. A standard model might ship in 5 to 10 days, but a custom-built 75-gallon tank could take 4 to 8 weeks. These retailers are worth checking if you have a specific vision—like a planted aquascape or an unusual tank dimension—and are willing to wait and pay more for quality. Many also offer detailed setup guides and customer support specific to their products.
Comparing price, speed, and selection
| Retailer Type | Price Range | Selection | Delivery Speed | Staff information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pet supply chains (Petco, PetSmart) | Mid-range | Common sizes only | Same day | Varies by location |
| Local aquarium shops | Higher | 15–40 models | Same day or next day | Usually strong |
| General retailers (Walmart, Target) | Budget | 5–20 gallons only | Same day or next day | Minimal |
| Online marketplaces (Amazon, Chewy) | Low to mid-range | Hundreds of models | 5–10 business days | None (reviews only) |
| Specialty online retailers | Premium | High-end and custom | 4–8 weeks | Email support |
What to check before buying any aquarium
Regardless of where you buy, inspect the tank for cracks, chips, or cloudy glass before setting it up. If you are buying in person, hold it up to light and look at all four corners and the bottom. If you are ordering online, check the return policy and take photos of the tank when it arrives so you have proof if damage occurred during shipping.
Confirm the tank dimensions match your space. A 20-gallon tank is typically 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 16 inches tall, but some models vary. Check the product listing for exact measurements. Also verify that the filter, heater, and any included supplies are rated for the tank size—a filter rated for 10 gallons will not work well in a 20-gallon tank.
If you are new to aquariums, ask the retailer or search online for setup guides specific to the model you are buying. Different tanks have different overflow systems, intake tubes, and filter placements, and knowing how yours works before you fill it saves frustration later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to buy online or in a store?
Online is usually cheaper by 15 to 30 percent, but shipping costs can offset that savings on smaller tanks. A 10-gallon tank might cost $30 in a store and $20 online, but $25 to ship, making the total $45. A 55-gallon tank might cost $80 in a store and $50 online with $30 shipping, making online the better deal. Compare the total delivered price, not just the listed price.
Can I return an aquarium if it arrives damaged?
Most online retailers accept returns for damaged tanks, but policies vary. Amazon and Chewy typically replace or refund without hassle if you report damage within 30 days. Specialty retailers may require photos or a damage report before processing a return. Check the return policy before ordering and take photos of the tank when it arrives so you have proof of damage.
What size aquarium should I buy as a beginner?
A 20-gallon tank is a good starting size—large enough to be forgiving of beginner mistakes but small enough to fit in most rooms and not cost too much. Avoid tanks smaller than 10 gallons; they are harder to keep stable. A local aquarium shop can help you choose based on the fish you want and your space.
Do I need to buy a starter kit or can I buy the tank and equipment separately?
You can do either. Starter kits bundle a tank, filter, heater, and supplies at a discount, which is convenient if you are new to aquariums. Buying separately lets you choose higher-quality equipment for each part, which costs more upfront but may last longer. Most beginners find a kit from a reputable brand like Aqueon or Marineland is a good balance.
Where can I find a local aquarium shop?
Search "aquarium shop near me" or "aquarium store [your city]" online. Check Google Maps, Yelp, or local business directories. Call ahead to confirm they have the tank size you want in stock and ask if staff can answer questions about setup and maintenance.